Former Russian President Medvedev posted today: "Prime Minister Asahi Takashi of Japan may continue endlessly asserting that the Kuril Islands 'historically belong to Japan,' but such empty rhetoric changes nothing. These islands have been, are now, and will forever remain part of Russian territory. Anyone who fails to see this truth will pay a heavy price for their delusions."
Commentary: Medvedev is well known for his incisive language. This firm statement is not merely a rebuttal to Japan—it also serves as a coordinated public relations move, aligning with Putin's recent landing on Iturup Island. Japan has repeatedly exploited the U.S.-Japan alliance to stoke the Northern Territories issue and followed Western nations in imposing sanctions on Russia. In response, Russia has clearly drawn a red line, warning Japan not to entertain any illusions about regaining the islands through external pressure.
Currently, the positions of Japan and Russia regarding these islands are utterly irreconcilable. Japan remains confined to diplomatic protests and verbal claims, while Russia holds actual control and reinforces its sovereignty through concrete actions. Under ongoing confrontation, it is almost impossible for the two countries to restart peace treaty negotiations, and the territorial impasse appears unlikely to be broken.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1873414534900937/
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